Tallgrass filmmaker questionnaire: Justin Johnson, ‘Double Digits’

Justin Johnson, director, “Double Digits: The Story of a Neighborhood Movie Star”

Currently residing in: Los Angeles

Genre(s): Documentary, biography

When is it screening? 6:45 p.m. Thursday at the Scottish Rite

Tell us about your film in 10 words or less: The inspiring true story of the Internet’s most inventive filmmaker.

Why were you drawn to tell this story? When I discovered R.G. (or really, he discovered me!) I knew this was an incredible story that more people needed to hear about.

How long did you work on the film? I worked on this film for over three years, so excited to see its North American premiere!

Who are directors you look up to/are inspired by: Chris Smith, the director of “American Movie,” is one of my favorites. Really though, I look more at the films themselves than specific directors. Is that weird?

What’s your favorite film? I’m a huge fan of Wes Anderson’s “Rushmore,” I swear I’ve seen it 20 times.

Do you prefer jumping off a cliff or taking the long, winding way down? Long, winding. I live a “right turn” kind of life for most things.

Been to Wichita before? Several times! This will be my fourth time.

Be honest. Ever mutter the phrase, “Toto, I don’t think we’re in Kansas anymore”? Every time we left Kansas after filming for the documentary ... every time.

Any advice for aspiring filmmakers? Surround yourself by people who are better/more talented than you. Offer to help, do a good job, don’t complain.

Anything else you’d like to add? I’m really looking forward to meeting as many people as possible at the festival.

This story was originally published October 14, 2015 at 1:50 PM with the headline "Tallgrass filmmaker questionnaire: Justin Johnson, ‘Double Digits’."